PTBNL In Neil Walker Trade Is RHP Eric Hanhold

A month ago today, the Mets dealt second baseman Neil Walker to the Milwaukee Brewers for a player to be named later. That player has been named, and it’s minor league RHP Eric Hanhold.

Hanhold, 23, had been a starting pitcher before this season. After going 2-12 in 19 starts last year, he shifted to the bullpen where he has enjoyed more success. This season he went 8-3 with a 3.94 ERA appearing in 30 games (three starts). In 64.0 innings he struck out 60 batters and walked 21, pitching to a 1.438 WHIP.

After settling in to the bullpen, he found his groove in the second half when he went 5-1 with a 1.53 ERA, striking out 32 in 17 games. The 6-foot-5, 220 pound righty could make his way up to the MLB bullpen soon if his recent success continues.

This goes along with the trend of Sandy Alderson stocking the minor leagues with young, powerful relievers. Meanwhile, Neil Walker has hit .268/.388/.465 with three home runs and five doubles in 23 games with the Brewers as they attempt to make the playoffs.

Ever since I experienced Mike Piazza's post 9/11 home run to beat the Braves at Shea, I have been a die-hard Mets fan and exhaustive lover of baseball. I am a recent graduate of Ithaca College where I pitched on the varsity baseball team for four years and have been writing for MetsMerized Online since January of 2015.
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